Sella Italia Turbo

In 1980 or so, Selle Italia brought out the Turbo.  It was, more than any other saddle, responsible for killing Brooks in the pro peloton.  Earlier saddles, such as the Cinelli Unicantor (which was as comfortable as thanksgiving with the inlaws) were popular based merely on the weight savings, but long distance fast bikes still used leather saddles. 

Over the years, I've owned Turbos and Turbo clones.  The original is still a worthy saddle, 40 plus years on.  Much of what makes a Brooks Professional comfortable is present:  firm, good shape, long skirts along the side of the saddle to eliminate pinch points and chaffing.  The back isn’t quite as wide as a professional, and it’s a bit more rounded.  With the Turbo set up level, nose to tail, there’s a slight dip in the center of the saddle, which keeps pressure off the bits.  

I’d peg this saddle as good for anything but really aggressive mountain biking.  Too firm for that.  Great for long hard efforts, faster paced gravel riding or bike packing jaunts, or blue trail mountain biking.  I run one on my Hardtack, and pretty much only ride Brooks saddles otherwise.  

Firm padding won’t clap out, even after years of use.  Real, Genuine Authentic cow leather top.  Steel rails.